Inside Finnair’s Luxe Helsinki Lounge—Yes, There’s a Sauna Before Your Flight

Unwind in the sauna, then savor a gourmet reindeer burger and refreshing blueberry juice before boarding — Finnair Lounges in Helsinki Airport are a special invitation to Nordic wellness and luxury.

The national carrier of Finland operates three lounges in Helsinki Airport. Before my New York-bound flight, I checked out the non-Schengen lounges and was invited as press to the Platinum Wing, reserved for top-tier elites.

Location

The non-Schengen lounges are situated near gate 52 on the concourse level, which is a bit of a walk from the security checkpoint. There are two entrances on either side of the reception area: one leads to the Business Class Lounge, while the other leads to the Platinum Wing.

Photo: Helsinki Airport. Courtesy of Finnair.

Display cabinets throughout the reception area showcase uniforms and memorabilia from various eras of the airline, commemorating its 100th anniversary in 2023.

Access Options

Most business class passengers, along with Finnair Gold, Platinum, and Platinum Lumo members, as well as oneworld Emerald and Sapphire status holders, can access the Business Class Lounge.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Additionally, travelers have the option to purchase lounge access as an add-on after booking their flight. The Platinum Wing is exclusive to Finnair Plus Platinum, Platinum Lumo, and oneworld Emerald members only. Those members are permitted to bring one or more guests, depending on their status.

The Lounges

Staying true to the essence of Finnish culture, the Platinum Wing features a mixed-gender sauna, complete with a cool-down room, as well as separate lockers and showers. During my trip, I visited several saunas in Helsinki and Tampere, and I had to immerse myself in this cultural experience one last time before leaving this beautiful country.

Photo: Courtesy of Finnair

After a quick rinse and about five minutes in the hot sauna, I felt pleasantly energized and relaxed. The showers and restrooms offered SEES brand organic bathing products and eco-friendly vanity items packaged in paper.

Upon entering, guests are welcomed by an upscale bar and a dining hall with an open kitchen, perfect for those who are thirsty or hungry. Adjacent to this area is a spacious “living room” featuring dark blue hues, cozy sofas, and a view of the airport apron. There are also a few private phone booths set up for conversations and meetings.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

I placed my carry-on bag in a locker by the entrance and made my way to the brasserie. A printed menu was set on the table, offering a selection of meat and vegetarian entrées. Additionally, there were buffet counters and a self-service beverage station. The servers were friendly and attentive, but on this busy Sunday afternoon, there was a backlog of food orders.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

While waiting for my late lunch, I decided to explore the Business Class Lounge, which is quite spacious and divided into several sections with a total of 450 seats comprising sofas and armchairs.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Air conditioning and USB power outlets are readily available throughout the facility. The interior design reflects authentic Finnish aesthetics, featuring furniture by noted Finnish designers, including the iconic ball chairs inspired by Eero Aarnio.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

The doors, walls, chairs, and tables are made from birch, Finland’s national tree, which plays a significant role in shaping the country’s landscape.

Food and Beverage

I initially thought that boarding time was approaching, so I asked the waiter to cancel my order and made my way to the gate. However, I discovered that the flight was slightly delayed, giving me more time to relax in the lounge. I then returned to the Platinum Wing and requested the reindeer burger once again.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

I finally enjoyed this specialty, freshly prepared in the open kitchen. There was a generous selection of vintage champagne, signature cocktails, and mocktails available to complement the à la carte dining. I also took three macarons from the dessert round table.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

In the Business Class section, the buffet counter offered a variety of hot dishes, including fish in coconut curry sauce, pasta, and seasoned potatoes served in cast-iron skillets.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

The cold salad bar featured vegetarian options, as well as marinated fish and shrimp. Additionally, there was a self-service beverage station featuring beer on tap, as well as a small, circular bar attended by a bartender.

Amenities

Private shower suites, soundproof phone booths, lockers, and family zones are available in both lounges.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

There’s no dedicated Wi-Fi as the airport already provides it for free throughout the entire terminal. 

Verdict

The most distinctive feature of Finnair lounges is the sauna. While other airlines also offer this facility, the experience at Finnair is particularly authentic, especially in Finland, which has been named the happiest nation for the eighth time by the World Happiness Report.

Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin Chiang

Enjoying a sauna while nearly naked in a shared space amidst the hustle and bustle of an airport can be both therapeutic and exhilarating. In addition to the sauna, there are plenty of spots for travelers to find their own moments of relaxation.